Choose one of the most beloved cities in Spain to improve your Spanish this summer. Barcelona is a sophisticated, vibrant city with unique architecture and the charm of a Mediterranean beach town. Spanish Language is one of the most popular major course choices. The main objective of this program is to improve your Spanish communication skills. Emphasis is on the development of both conversational and written skills. You’ll leave Barcelona and your unforgettable summer feeling more independent and better prepared for college while making great friends, seeing incredible sites and having improved your Spanish along the way.

You will choose a Major course from the choices listed below. All of our classes are private and exclusive to our students. (with the exception of Barcelona Artist Workshop).

Spanish Language

The main objective of this course is to improve your Spanish communication skills. Emphasis is on the development of both conversational and written skills. Attention is given to grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing with the ultimate goal of enhancing verbal skills. During your first day of school you will be assessed and assigned to a class of 6 to 10 students based on your Spanish ability. We don’t just want you to know Spanish, we want you to be able to use it. CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is taught at International House Spanish Language School (IH), a center of learning for over 39 years. IH is centrally located, just steps from Plaza Cataluña and Las Ramblas and is one of Spain’s leading teacher training centers, which makes them highly effective when it comes to helping students maximize learning. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL

Business Management (eligible for optional college credit)

This course is designed to engage students in learning about the importance of management in a global business environment. Students will develop managerial skills through case studies, role-plays, in-class discussions, guest speakers and active class participation. CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is taught at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB). UAB is one of the most prestigious universities in Spain, offering the highest quality professors, facilities, and curriculum in Barcelona. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL

On the 28 day program only, you may choose to earn 3 college credits. Credit is through the UAB and is transferrable to many colleges and universities. The decision to accept credits is ultimately made by the school you attend upon high school graduation. There is a $575 fee for the credit option.

Digital Photography: Barcelona (eligible for optional college credit)

Students will develop their technical skills as well as their artistic vision. Students will learn an in-depth knowledge of digital cameras, the basics of composition, how to retouch images, and will be inspired by the historical masters of photography. The skills mastered will culminate in an individual photography project to be completed by the end of the course. CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is taught at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB). UAB is one of the most prestigious universities in Spain, offering the highest quality professors, facilities, and curriculum in Barcelona. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL

On the 28 day program only, you may choose to earn 3 college credits. Credit is through the UAB and is transferrable to many colleges and universities. The decision to accept credits is ultimately made by the school you attend upon high school graduation. There is a $575 fee for the credit option.

Introduction To Psychology (Eligible For Optional College Credit)

This course will give students an introduction to different fields within the study of Psychology and cover topics including the scientific method, the study of the mind and mental processes, how memory works, what influences our perception, and why people behave the way we do! CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course is taught at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB). UAB is one of the most prestigious universities in Spain, offering the highest quality professors, facilities, and curriculum in Barcelona. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL

On the 28 day program only, you may choose to earn 3 college credits. Credit is through the UAB and is transferrable to many colleges and universities. The decision to accept credits is ultimately made by the school you attend upon high school graduation. There is a $575 fee for the credit option.

Online Marketing with Digital Apps (Eligible for Optional College Credit)

Videos are rapidly overtaking traditional marketing techniques so that videos are no longer just for entertainment. “If a picture paints 1,000 words then the value of one minute of video has been estimated at 1.8 million!” (Forrester)

This course gives you the key tools to plan and produce your own promotional video using the latest digital apps. You also learn how to promote your video via different social media.

This course is taught at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB). UAB is one of the most prestigious universities in Spain, offering the highest quality professors, facilities, and curriculum in Barcelona. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL

On the 28 day program only, you may choose to earn 3 college credits. Credit is through the UAB and is transferrable to many colleges and universities. The decision to accept credits is ultimately made by the school you attend upon high school graduation. There is a $575 fee for the credit option.

Cooking: The Food And Culture Of Spain

This course is taught at Barcelona Cooking Culinary School. This course is designed for students with an interest in Spanish food and culinary traditions. Expert chefs will not only teach you technical skills in the kitchen, but you will also develop a foundational understanding of Spanish Culture as it has been shaped by the country’s culinary traditions. Each class will focus on a different region of Spain. Students will learn how to prepare one of the region’s signature dishes, such as Valencian paella and tapas from Catalonia. CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTION

About Barcelona Cooking Culinary School

Located right on Barcelona’s famous Las Ramblas, Barcelona Cooking is a unique culinary school that offers intimate and hands-on culinary experiences in the heart of the city. The contemporary, spacious kitchen is just steps away from the Boqueria Market, one of the most famous and beloved food markets in the world. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL

Barcelona Artist Workshop

At the downtown art school, Estudio Nómada, you learn various artistic techniques (such as printmaking, drawing, acrylic painting and photography) under the close mentorship of Barcelona based artists. You will be part of a multicultural peer group of students from around the globe. In this exciting art studio you will be working on the enhancement of your artistic portfolio and investigating how creativity can play a role in your future education. CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTION

About Estudio Nómada Art Center

Located in an old palacio in the cobbled streets of the Gothic Quarter, Estudio Nómada is a working, learning, and exhibition complex for traveling artists. So much more than just a school, Estudio Nómada operates as an artistic center where artists and students collaborate, inspire, and learn from each other. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS SCHOOL

We strive to maintain up-to-date course information on this page and to run these courses. Availability may vary due to full course enrollment, cancellation due to insufficient enrolment, or changes by the teaching institutions.

You will choose an elective from the choices listed below. All electives are private and exclusive to 360° Student Travel students only.

Spanish Culture

Spain’s culture is incredibly rich and varied. This course will explore contributing factors to Spain’s cultural uniqueness, including artistic traditions, folklore, social customs, architecture, and history. CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTION

The Princeton Review SAT (and ACT too!)*

Improving your performance on the SAT comes down to one thing: becoming a better test taker. The Princeton Review’s experts have spent countless hours thoroughly researching the test so that they can teach you how to crack it. Your instructor will help you master the content covered on the New SAT, show you Princeton Review’s exclusive test-taking strategies and give you the study tools you need to practice on your own and master what is covered in class.

Your Princeton Review instructor will help you master the test through in-class practice, drills and test reviews. You will better understand math, critical reading and writing concepts tested on the exams and your instructor will teach proven test-taking techniques. All lessons are focused on beating the SAT!

In addition to your course, you’ll be getting the following materials and extras:

4 full length Diagnostic Exams, with detailed computer analysis of the results

The Princeton Review Course, Verbal and Math Workbooks for the New SAT

24/7 Access to our new adaptive student portal. You can spend your time studying on your unique areas of focus to help you maximize your score

Thinking of taking the ACT too? The Princeton Review ACT Live-Online Prep Course is included with your summer SAT course for no additional fee. It will be available post-completion of your summer course.

Capture the city of Barcelona from behind the lens. Learn to frame, light and compose photos in the inspiring surrounding of art, architecture and Spanish culture. Create a journal under the direction of internationally recognized photographer Katherin Wermke. Katherin and her staff teach the course amongst the backdrop of Barcelona and from her impressive professional studio. You must supply your own digital camera for this elective course. CLICK HERE FOR COURSE DESCRIPTIONCLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS STUDIO

Independent Workout

If you eat right and exercise, you’ll feel great. Plan a work-out regimen including weight training and aerobics to help you meet your fitness goals. If you commit the results will follow!

This is your chance to give back to the communities in and around Barcelona. Work with children, young people and families by developing educational and recreational programs after school and/or during the summer. You can make a real difference in the lives of these individuals by facilitating activities, games, continuing education and/or English classes. A certificate of completion recognizing 18 hours of service and a signed letter detailing the projects accomplished will be issued after the trip. Westcoast Connection / 360˚ Student Travel is a Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

The Dir Diagonal Health Spa and Pool Club is unlike any fitness center you have ever seen! All students will receive a complimentary membership to this incredible and modern facility. Located around the corner from the residence, you will be able to use all its amenities during your Student Choice time and/or during the Independent Workout elective. Cardio, free weights and Hammer Strength equipment is just the start of what this gym has to offer. You can also enjoy yoga, spinning, Pilates, tai-chi, aerobics, or any of the 250 classes offered. Need to cool down after your workout? The solarium indoor pool and outdoor resort pool with lounge chairs and shady palm trees are great places to relax. CLICK HERE TO TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR OF THIS SPECTACULAR FACILITY

These exciting weekend visits allow you to experience even more of Spain:

Madrid

Your group’s weekend excursion to Spain’s exciting capital of Madrid is one that you’ll never forget. Check into the beautiful Hotel Opera in the center of all the action, just steps from the Plaza Mayor, Royal Palace and Gran Via. Explore Puerta del Sol, the Prado Museum, El Retiro Park, and El Rastro Market.

Sitges Beach Resort

End your summer in style at the Sitges Beach Resort known for its incredible pool and luxurious beach. You will quickly appreciate why this town is such a big hit with our groups.

Enjoy the following day trips:

Montserrat

Make your way to the top of this beautiful mountain retreat for breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and coastal islands. Visit the famous monastery and enjoy a beautiful hike and relaxing picnic.

Figueres

Be intrigued by the unique and quirky works of Salvador Dali; this is not just a museum, it’s an experience. The building itself is a work of art.

Girona

Explore the labyrinth of cobblestone streets in the old quarter of this medieval city.

Port Aventura

Stroll through the internationally themed regions of Spain’s biggest theme park, with six thrilling roller coasters and 24 other exciting rides including Furious Baco and Sea Odyssey.

An Exclusive Neighborhood Where You Will Live Like A Local

Your modern and upscale residence is located in the heart of the Sarria district with tree-lined streets, charming cafes and quaint shops. You will be living like a local in the most desirable residential quarter of the city.

Just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of downtown, this quiet and picturesque neighborhood will charm and delight you.

Residence Collegi Major Sant Jordi – Barcelona

This is beyond your typical dorm, it is a residence that will impress! Your summer home is in one of the most exclusive areas of Barcelona with chic cafes, boutiques, parks and theaters only steps away. Each two-person suite features air conditioning, a private bathroom, a safe for your valuables, Internet connection and desks. The residence provides 24-hour security, and features include a garden & sun deck, a state-of-the-art gym with indoor soccer, volleyball and basketball courts, a game room with ping-pong, foosball and pool tables, a snack café and dining hall, a theater, a laundry room and a library, study and computer rooms.

Photos

At Westcoast Connection nothing else comes first. From our extensive trip planning department through our management team and our leaders, it is our single biggest priority! Safety procedures, equipment – we’ve got it covered. All Trip Leaders and Directors are certified in First Aid and CPR. We are extremely proud of our safety record and welcome all questions you may have in this area. Please see more under Safety First.

Flight To Barcelona, Spain

Participants on this program have the option to fly overseas on our chaperoned group flight that leaves in the evening from the New York area to Barcelona. Our staff will be with you from the time you check in onward. For the many travelers from outside the New York area, you can choose to join the chaperoned flight and we are happy to assist you with arranging connecting flights at suitable times into New York; or if you prefer, you may meet us in Barcelona and we will help you coordinate your flight and times and greet you after you proceed through immigration and customs.

For your return from Barcelona, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York. For travelers from other areas, you may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers at suitable times from New York after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA; or you may fly from Barcelona to your home city and our leaders help you to check in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.

Trustworthy Staff - Leaders Worth Following

Once you are on your program, you will have sensitive leaders that are caring, approachable and always there for you. Your Program Director and Program Leaders are people with incredible backgrounds including teachers, guitar players, IRONMAN triathletes, SCUBA divers, volunteers, and so much more.

Every staff member takes part in and must complete our extensive training weekends that review our philosophy and procedures to provide a well-supervised and fun-filled program.

Our Program Directors, the individuals responsible for overseeing each itinerary, take on the roles of teachers, coaches, camp counselors, mentors, concierges and hosts. They’ve been trained to provide individual attention, help you navigate your courses and pre-college life, and create an inclusive environment within the residence and each class. There’s a definite art to building dynamic groups, and we’ve worked hard to master it! We want you smiling on day one right through to a teary goodbye at your farewell banquet.

The Social Experience

Our Pre-College Enrichment programs are designed to give you a taste of the excitement and independence you will experience in college. Just like in college, you will be part of a large group of students, live in a residence, be assigned a roommate and have your choice of classes. And like in college, you will enjoy a warm, family environment within your residence where you enjoy many opportunities to socialize with other students within your residence and classes. Our staff hiring and training emphasizes social safety and establishing an inclusive culture. We are extremely skilled at this. We take great care in crafting an environment that simulates and prepares you for life as a college student, both academically and socially.

Our School Partners

We have partnered with some of the most prestigious schools in Barcelona. You may choose to study Spanish at The International House Language School, centrally located and just steps from Plaza Cataluña and Las Ramblas. This is one of Spain’s leading teacher training centers and boasts some of the best Spanish teachers in the city. Choose one of several university level courses taught at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) and enjoy state of the art teaching and facilities, in addition to earning college credit. Or, you may choose to embrace the rich food and dining traditions of Spain and study cooking at Barcelona Cooking, a cutting edge culinary school just steps from the Boqueria Market.

Enriching Courses, Engaging Instructors

Course offerings cover a diverse range of academic disciplines and interests so you can explore your passion, whether it’s Spanish language, business, photography or psychology to name a few. We work with highly qualified instructors so courses are taught by university faculty, local industry professionals and specialists. Some classes have the option to earn 3 college credits, which are transferable to many colleges and universities, while others are enrichment courses and include a Certificate of Completion at the end of the program. For those who choose community service options, a letter is issued for the hours completed.

Note the schedule above is “typical,” your personal schedule and lunch time may vary based on your course choices.

A Taste of the College Life

Talk about an incredible summer. This program is the perfect balance of study, cultural immersion, college preparation and touring highlights. You will have the unique opportunity to study at internationally renowned schools while living in the heart of Barcelona. While staying in a college residence, eating in the dining hall, working out at the gym, going to class and utilizing public transportation, you will get a true taste of the college experience.

Balance of Independence & Structure

Getting a sneak peek at college life wouldn’t be complete without gaining some independence. Within structured daily schedules, our summer leaders provide guidance and supervision and are always available at designated meeting spots. This means that, together with your classmates, you’ll be able to navigate your way around the city, and explore neighboring sights, restaurants and cafes. Our tightly knit groups also come together for evening meals and activities, making it easy for our students to meet and build lasting friendships!

Today’s Travelers, Tomorrow’s Leaders

As you travel to new places and experience different cultures, your journey may challenge your ideas and preconceived notions. We recognize this and strive to provide an environment where you are free to question and learn. This is nurtured by our leaders’ open and non-judgmental guidance.

Our experience lends itself to trying new things and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone. While living, working and learning together, you are afforded the chance to interact with very different communities. Everybody grows in their social acceptance of others. Your perception will change as your understanding of and empathy for others grows. Whereas prior to your travels, you may have held stereotypes for some communities, your new first-hand experience will enable you to see we often share more in common with others than we may have known.

Value & Over the Top Service

There really is a difference in how different summer programs operate! Motivated students going away with qualified leaders is a given. But what sets us apart is the depth of our qualified personnel that allow us to perform with the greatest consistency at the highest level.

Your Program Director and Program Leaders are with you throughout your program. They have daily contact with one of our two 24-hour Communication Centers and are in regular contact with our Company Directors. Our Company Directors are the most seasoned veterans who each oversee specific programs providing support to program staff and to assist with any situations that may arise. Our Company Directors alternate between traveling to visit programs and being reached in the office. Program visits enable us to provide ongoing support and development to our Program Directors, allows program staff to have a sounding board for their own progress in reaching trip goals, helps us to identify any challenging areas for improvement while it still has relevance to your summer rather than as a mention on your end-of-summer survey, and helps us to identify the future Directors from the current crop of all-star summer staff. These visits are by Company Directors along with our Regional Supervisors, who are former Program Directors with further experience out in the field. Collectively our planning, supervisory and management team is an incredible resource with over 420 summers of combined teen travel experience. Last year we had 205 scheduled supervisory program visits to make sure all was running well, provide ongoing support to our staff in the field, and have fun! This investment in depth of personnel is unrivaled in teen travel and is a critical element to achieving consistent, excellent program quality and surpassing client expectations!

Included in the trip tuition are all activities and entertainment described, breakfast & dinner daily, lunches as indicated on your specific program, gratuities, taxes, land transportation, accommodations and fanatical customer service from our full-time team and summer Communication Centers. This can add up to tremendous value!

Exciting Day & Weekend Excursions

With 36 years of experience creating perfectly-planned summer programs, students will also take in the sights, impressive weekend and day trips, all included in the program tuition. Considering travel as education in itself, students get to immerse themselves in a new city and culture for an overall enriching experience. This study - travel balance is unique as, when not in class, our groups can be seen enjoying Barcelona’s most famous sights and simply having the summer of a lifetime!

Food & Meals

A big part of your Pre-College Enrichment program’s success depends on how well you eat. We are proud of the fact that year after year we are complimented for our quality, quantity and choice of food! Breakfasts in Spain are eaten at the dining hall or hotels and are buffets with a variety of hot and cold choices. For dinners, on most school nights, you will dine at the residence hall. On other nights, either the whole group goes to the same restaurant or we divide into smaller groups with staff to sample quainter places with a variety of different cuisines. For lunch, you enjoy the choice of eating in smaller groups and choosing from local cafés and small restaurants. Food options are varied and plentiful; taste seafood from the coast, paella, incredible fresh fruits and plenty of fresh vegetables and meats. But don’t worry, they also have North American style options on the menu.

We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, anaphylactic food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive personal experience in this area. International travel may present more challenges than domestic locations and we are happy to review your personal needs and help you select an appropriate itinerary.

Getting Around

During the day, students travel in small groups by public transportation for the short ride from their residence to classes. In the evenings, our staff travels together with students on any public transportation. Our staff is there to support and guide you at all times.

On day and weekend excursions you’ll ride in a charted deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach with a professional driver.

Laundry

You only need to bring one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in our packing list as we have the opportunity to do laundry at your convenience. You can drop off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go or you will have the opportunity to do laundry in your residence hall.

Keeping In Touch Over The Summer – 24/7 Peace Of Mind

While you’re out having the summer of your life, your parents should feel like they are in on the action as well. We post updates to our blog and Facebook page and e-mail photos approximately once a week so those at home can be in on the fun. Parents also have access to our dedicated office Trip Monitors 24/7 for any questions and/or concerns. We’re as in touch as any trip operator could possibly be via smartphones with e-mail and text. The goal is uncompromising safety and peace of mind, day after day, hour by hour, minute by minute. Participants may bring their personal cell phones.

We Deliver – 98% Approval Rating!

In last summer’s surveys, 98% of responding teens and parents said they would recommend us to others. We must be doing something right!